Holmes Gallery exhibit explores eclectic collection of color, abstraction, and perspective

Drawn to the unusual, the colorful, and the abstract, Carl Gay finds inspiration in details and perspectives others might overlook. Without a formal arts background, he began taking photographs and gradually developed an eclectic style that includes abstract painting and mixed media.

 

In his new exhibit, “Abstract Expressions: A Personal Perspective,” Carl brings those hidden details into view. The collection will be on display in the Stephen Joseph Holmes & Elizabeth Handley Holmes Art Gallery at the new Reid Health Connersville now through Sept. 30.

 

Reid partners with the Whitewater Valley Arts Association to showcase regional artists and will rotate exhibitions each quarter.

 

Featuring photography and abstract paintings, the exhibit reflects Carl’s personal interpretation of color, form, and abstraction.

 

A North Carolina native who grew up in Richmond, Carl joined Reid as a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) in 2007, working in the Geriatric and Adult Psychiatric units. In 2020, he transferred to Behavioral Health.

 

He began exploring photography that same year, starting with everyday subjects, before taking a photography class at the Richmond Art Museum (RAM), with artist and graphic designer Carvin Rinehart.

 

“I’ve always had an affinity for art but the photography and taking the art class at RAM is what really got me started,” Carl said.

 

Through photography and painting, he incorporates texture, angles, and color to create visually engaging works. He also explores mixed media, creating pieces with alcohol inks and acrylic paints.

 

Carl describes his work as eclectic, drawing inspiration from a variety of subjects, techniques, and artistic influences. The pieces featured in the exhibition reflect the development of his work and offer viewers a personal perspective on color, form, and expression.

 

He’s received numerous awards, including the Petal and Stem Award and the Robert and Carol Eberle Merit Award from RAM, as well as Best of Show honors at regional exhibits. His work has also been recognized by institutions such as the Swope Art Museum in Terre Haute, Indiana, and the Anderson Museum of Art in Anderson, Indiana.

 

He’s held two solo exhibitions in the MacDowell Gallery at Reid Health in Richmond, and his photography is included in permanent collections at several healthcare facilities, including Reid Health Richmond and Connersville, and McCullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital. His work is also part of many private collections.

 

As a nurse and an artist, Carl hopes his work contributes to the health and well-being of others. Through vibrant colors, abstract forms, and unique perspectives, he hopes the collection provides patients, visitors, and Reid team members with a moment of happiness.

 

“Art as part of the healing process is very important,” Carl said.

 

He also hopes viewers leave with a new perspective of seeing the familiar in a different way.

 

“There's beauty in everything,” Carl said.

 

The Stephen Joseph Holmes & Elizabeth Handley Holmes Art Gallery is located on the first floor of Reid Health Connersville, located at 2500 Park Road. Once at the health campus, go to the main entrance and then head down the corridor to your left. The gallery is just beyond the lab/imaging registration desk.

 

The gallery is open to visitors from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and is closed on Saturday and Sunday.